I've Had It Little Dicktator Energy
Sep 4, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Ruth Ben-Ghiat, a noted Professor of history and expert on authoritarianism, tackles the rise of loyalty-driven politics and its eerie parallels with historical dictatorships. She highlights the intersection of misogyny and hyper-masculinity in contemporary leadership. Delving into the psychological allure of authoritarian figures, Ruth urges listeners to remain proactive in political engagement for a healthier society. The conversation is a thought-provoking mix of history, politics, and personal responsibility.
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President As Dictator Fan
- Trump openly admires dictators and treats them as role models, which is historically unusual for U.S. presidents.
- Ruth Ben‑Ghiat warns this admiration signals a dangerous alignment with authoritarian methods abroad.
Personal Example: Benefits Terminated
- Ruth Ben‑Ghiat shares a personal case where her elderly mother's Social Security benefits were terminated.
- She uses this example to illustrate how government services are being rolled back for vulnerable people.
Militarized Politics Is A Red Flag
- Politicizing the military risks deploying troops against civilians and normalizing forceful repression.
- Ben‑Ghiat finds the mobilization and politicization of security forces a key red flag for coup risk.
